Masengeli charged with Sh2.6million fraud in botched police recruitment scam
A man accused of defrauding jobseekers of Sh2.6million in botched police recruitment scam under pretences that he was in a position to secure them positions in the National Police Service (NPS) has been charged before a Nairobi court.
James Chesimani Masengeli, also known as Timothy Khatete Barasa was presented before Milimani Chief Magistrate Dolphina Alego today, December 8, to answer to a charge of obtaining money by false pretences.
The court heard that on diverse dates between 18 and 23 November 2025, Masengeli allegedly obtained Sh2,588,000 from several individuals by claiming he was able to secure seven employment slots in the National Police Service, claims the prosecution says were false.
He was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts, where the prosecution confirmed that investigations link the payments directly to the suspect’s alleged promise of influencing entry into the NPS.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences were committed at an unknown location within the country.
Masengeli’s lawyer, Shadrack Wambui, did not oppose the proposed date and appealed for lenient bail terms, telling the court that the accused is a father of four and a law-abiding citizen.
He further argued that Masengeli was a victim of mistaken identity, adding that the defence would demonstrate this as the case progresses.
However, the prosecution informed Chief Magistrate Alego that the accused is not a serving police officer, contradicting earlier claims by the defence.
He was released on a Sh1million bond with two sureties of the same amount or a cash bail of Sh500,000.
The matter will resume for pretrial on December 16, 2025 when further directions will be issued.
